Visit Hawaii To Stargaze From The Mauna Kea Observatory
At an impressive 13,796 feet above sea level, Mauna Kea Observatory on the Big Island is one of the best places in the world to stargaze. Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain in the world when measured from the seabed and at 33,000 feet is actually taller than Mount Everest. It is home to a 500 square mile area of astronomical research facilities known as the Astronomy Zone, which was established in 1967. There are twelve telescopes around the summit and several different nations sponsor telescopes at Mauna Kea Observatory, including the USA, UK and Japan.
What makes the location of Mauna Kea Observatory all the more perfect for stargazing, as well as its height, is the combination of high altitude, clean air and absence of light providing ideal conditions for this activity. Many international observatories can be found on Mauna Kea including the W.M. Keck Observatory on its summit, which is home to the twin Keck Telescopes, the world's largest optical and infrared telescopes. The Onizuka Centre for International Astronomy Visitor Information Centre offers guided tours and visitors can learn about Mauna Kea.
Hawaii may see an increasing number of British amateur astronomers this year as The International Year of Astronomy, which took place during 2009, is thought to have kick started a wave of interest among people with no formal scientific background. Many will be headed to Mauna Kea Observatory, known as one of the places on earth which are a must see place for stargazers. For most, their destination will be the visitor centre situated at 2775 m above sea level. The actual observatory itself is at such a high altitude that the scientists who work there have to stay for 8 hours or more at Hale Pohaku first, in order to acclimatize themselves.
Like all the mountains of Hawaii and indeed the islands themselves, Mauna Kea is volcanic. The volcano on which Mauna Kea Observatory is situated is still designated as active and last erupted in 1984 whilst Kilauea Volcano, the world's most active volcano, has been erupting for more than 25 years and is a wonder to behold. The volcano, the name of which means "much spewing", can be experienced in all its might as its lava spills into the Pacific Ocean. The Volcanoes National Park offers hikers a number of unique walks including Waipio Valley, the "Valley of the Kings" so there are many reasons to visit the area and stay a while during times when major astronomical events are expected.
The destination offers an all round tourist experience. The natural beauty of the place and the wildlife is truly breathtaking, while Hawaii's Big Island is also known as the Healing Island, a place where a strong tradition of wellness combines with the aloha spirit to nurture the soul. The island is renowned for its spa offerings where tropical fruits, indigenous nuts, spices, oils and flowers are used. There is a good range of facilities to enjoy these treatments including large resorts, shoreline sanctuaries and peaceful retreats.
What makes the location of Mauna Kea Observatory all the more perfect for stargazing, as well as its height, is the combination of high altitude, clean air and absence of light providing ideal conditions for this activity. Many international observatories can be found on Mauna Kea including the W.M. Keck Observatory on its summit, which is home to the twin Keck Telescopes, the world's largest optical and infrared telescopes. The Onizuka Centre for International Astronomy Visitor Information Centre offers guided tours and visitors can learn about Mauna Kea.
Hawaii may see an increasing number of British amateur astronomers this year as The International Year of Astronomy, which took place during 2009, is thought to have kick started a wave of interest among people with no formal scientific background. Many will be headed to Mauna Kea Observatory, known as one of the places on earth which are a must see place for stargazers. For most, their destination will be the visitor centre situated at 2775 m above sea level. The actual observatory itself is at such a high altitude that the scientists who work there have to stay for 8 hours or more at Hale Pohaku first, in order to acclimatize themselves.
Like all the mountains of Hawaii and indeed the islands themselves, Mauna Kea is volcanic. The volcano on which Mauna Kea Observatory is situated is still designated as active and last erupted in 1984 whilst Kilauea Volcano, the world's most active volcano, has been erupting for more than 25 years and is a wonder to behold. The volcano, the name of which means "much spewing", can be experienced in all its might as its lava spills into the Pacific Ocean. The Volcanoes National Park offers hikers a number of unique walks including Waipio Valley, the "Valley of the Kings" so there are many reasons to visit the area and stay a while during times when major astronomical events are expected.
The destination offers an all round tourist experience. The natural beauty of the place and the wildlife is truly breathtaking, while Hawaii's Big Island is also known as the Healing Island, a place where a strong tradition of wellness combines with the aloha spirit to nurture the soul. The island is renowned for its spa offerings where tropical fruits, indigenous nuts, spices, oils and flowers are used. There is a good range of facilities to enjoy these treatments including large resorts, shoreline sanctuaries and peaceful retreats.
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